Resolved, that the members of the Bar now
assembled, on behalf of themselves and brethren throughout the Province,
express their deep sorrow at the death of Sir Matthew Baillie Begbie Knight,
late the Chief Justice of British Columbia.
Throughout a long life he occupied a distinguished
position as a lawyer and a judge and although he reached an advanced age,
he was up to within a few weeks of his death, actively engaged in the performance
of the duties pertaining to his high office. His removal takes away one
of the most prominent figures connected with the early history of this Province,
a man whose strong individuality and uprightness have left a lasting impress
upon every branch of our judicial system.
At a period when firmness and discretion
in the administration of justice were most needed, his wise and fearless
action as a judge caused the law to be honoured and obeyed in every quarter.
When the settlement of the country advanced
and the necessity for preventing lawless outbreaks became less frequent,
he, as the Chief Justice of our Supreme Court, manifested an ability which
showed that his intellectual faculties were as keen and active as his character
was stable and commanding.
He was a man of scholarly attainments and
his versatility of talent evoked the admiration of all who came in contact
with him.
As a judge, the tendency of his thought
was eminently logical, his judgment was prompt and decisive, his integrity
was never questioned.
His private life was in every way worthy
of his public position. Plain and unassuming in manner, courteous and dignified
in his speech, loyal to his companions, firm in his friendships, of a generous
and sympathetic nature, unostentatiously good and silently charitable, he
will be missed not only by his professional associates but by many who knew
him only as a kind and steadfast friend.
He has departed from us full of years and
honours, but his memory will remain as that of one whose judicial career
has been without stain, and whose personal worth has won our deepest respect
and affection.
